CITIZEN SAVES SMALL CHILD FROM MOVING TRAIN

PRESS RELEASE

On December 19^th, 2011, at approximately 1043 Hrs, Officers from the Palestine Police Department responded to the area of W.Oak @ San Jacinto in reference to an unattended child.

The complainant, a passing motorist driving westbound on W. Oak, observed what appeared to be a small child approaching a slow moving train, west of the railroad tracks near the intersection.

The child, a four year old male, was eventually detained by the complainant, and upon police arrival, a search was undertaken to find the child’s residence.

Officer Marcos Lara found that the child had walked away from a residence in the 300 Block of McClellan, after the babysitter reported leaving her two children, along the victim and the victim’s brother outside while she went to the bathroom inside the residence. The children varied in age from 2-6 years of age.

Child Protective Services was notified and an employee responded to the scene.

An offense report was generated for Abandoning/Endangering a Child with Criminal Negligence, a State Jail Felony. The case will be forwarded to the Palestine PD Criminal Investigation Division, and will be sent to the Anderson County District Attorney’s Office for consideration.

PALESTINE PD GETS TWO NEW CRIME PREVENTION OFFICERS

PRESS RELEASE

The Palestine Police Department has two newly trained Crime Prevention Officers, after they completed their training at the Harris County Sheriff’s Department last week.

Officer Fernando Nino and Detective David Kassaw completed Phase I of the three phases in the Crime Prevention program taught by the Institute for Criminal Justice Studies.

Both officers have completed coursework and have obtained the basic knowledge of Crime Prevention and the fundamental concepts and techniques for preventing and deterring crime. They have been awarded the skills to conduct home inspections, business commercial security surveys, residential security surveys, and are able to make realistic recommendations to remove or reduce obvious crime risk. Detective Kassaw and Officer Nino advised that the training was fun and interesting, but was very demanding of their time. “There was a lot of homework involved in the class, and it was not uncommon for us to be completing our assignments at 1am”, said Det. Kassaw.

The department will be looking to put their skills to good use in the near future, as Chief Robert Herbert takes over on January 3^rd.  Chief Herbert, also a Crime Prevention Inspector, will be looking to bring the police department and the community together.

“This is one of the programs that the Palestine Police Department has lacked over the course of the last ten to fifteen years, says Lieutenant Jeff Powell. “We will be developing the policies and procedures for implementation of the program based on input from Chief Herbert and the officers that completed the training.”

Phase II of the training will deal with public speaking in regards to Crime Prevention, and Phase III will allow the officers to train by attempting to “burglarize buildings” to find if they are actually secure. The department is planning on continuing the officers’ training later in 2012.

LOCAL BUSINESS VICTIM OF BURGLARY

PRESS RELEASE

On December 9^th, 2011, at approximately 0242 Hrs, Officers responded to Katie’s

Pantry, located at 4217 W. Oak, in reference to a burglar alarm.

Upon arrival, officers determined that offenders had entered into the business by breaking through the back wall of the building. The business was searched, the offenders appeared to have fled scene prior to the arrival of police.

The ATM machine from inside the business appeared to have been stolen during the offense. The monetary loss due to offense has not been reported at the time of the press release.

Upon review of the surveillance video, it appears that the offenders wore gloves and masks during the commission of the offense.

Anyone having information regarding this or any other criminal offense, can call the Palestine Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at (903)731-8477 or Crime Stoppers at 729-TIPS(8477).

WOMAN STABBED BY EX-BOYFRIEND

PRESS RELEASE

On November 30^th, 2011, Officers from the Palestine Police Department responded to the Palestine Regional Medical Center, 2900 S. Loop 256, in reference to an Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon, which occurred at a residence in the 1200 block of Hays St.

According to the victim, Amber Priehs, 20 years of age, her ex-boyfriend, identified as Jalon R. Owens, 21 years of age, entered into her residence without permission, and became involved in a verbal argument regarding their relationship, which had reportedly ended in the last several weeks.

During the disturbance, Owens produced a knife reportedly stabbed Priehs in the left upper arm.

Priehs reportedly was driven to the hospital by a friend, where she was treated for the injury. Detectives then were called to assist with the investigation.

Officers were unable to contact Owens in reference to the incident, and he has yet to come forward.

The case was forwarded to the criminal investigation division for follow up investigation.

POLICE DEPARTMENT WARNS CITIZENS REGARDING RECENT TRAILER THEFTS

PRESS RELEASE

The Palestine Police Department has received several reports of theft of utility trailers since September 1, 2011, having taken over 15 reports regarding this type of theft.

There does not appear to be any specific pattern, and there are few leads regarding the suspects at this time. Citizens are asked to be on the lookout and report any suspicious occurrences where trailers are being transported away from businesses and residences that look out of the ordinary or the vehicles moving the trailers do not match that of the home owners.

“Citizens with trailers are encouraged to lock down the tongue of the trailer with a spare ball, by locking the extra ball in place with a lock. Other methods of precaution may be to “boot” the trailer tires, or lock both trailer tires in place by locking a pipe between the two tires”, says Lt. Jeff Powell.

Any citizens having information regarding the recent trailer thefts or any other criminal activity are encouraged to call Crimestoppers at (903)729-TIPS or the Palestine Police Department Investigation Division at (903)731-8477.

COPPER THEFT MOTIVE FOR HOUSE FIRE

PRESS RELEASE

On November 17^th, 2011, at approximately 0952 Hrs, the Palestine Fire Department and Palestine Police Department responded to the 100 Block of Ferguson in reference to a suspicious house fire.

The initial investigation indicated that a witness had observed suspects, described as a heavy set female and male, entering into the residence, and believed that the house may have been rented by the couple.

Fire Department Officials discovered that the suspects appeared to have been burning insulated house wiring in the bathroom using an unknown accelerant.

The fire in the tub, according to Interim Fire Chief Alan Wilcher, apparently got out of control and set the rest of the bathroom on fire.

No one was found within the residence during the investigation, indicating that the suspects fled prior to the Fire Department and Police arriving on the scene.

There was also evidence that the house was being occupied by persons without the consent of the owner, who contacted the police department over the weekend to report the offense.

“The insulation in being burned off so that the copper can be more expediently sold to businesses that deal in precious metals.”

“We need help from the public in identifying these suspicious circumstances. If persons are carrying around spools of house wiring, and look out of place, the police need to be contacted. We need to identify these people, as we have received several reports of copper theft.  A lot of it is continuing to come from vacant houses and businesses. It is a growing problem”, said Lt. Jeff Powell of the Palestine Police Department.

The case is being forwarded to the criminal investigation division for follow up investigation.

Two Care-Flighted in Overnight Accident on Crockett Rd in Palestine

PRESS RELEASE

On 10-06-2011 at approximately 0200 hrs, Officers responded to a call of a Major Traffic Accident on Crockett Rd at Vaughn. Upon arrival, Officers discovered that only one vehicle had been involved in the accident.

The vehicle was described as a red 2006 Dodge Charger. The initial investigation of the accident revealed that vehicle had been traveling southbound on Crockett Rd, in the outside lane. The vehicle appeared to have initially left the roadway striking a curb located near Crockett and Hunter Dr. The vehicle drove south through a triangular grass island, entered back onto the street at E. Vaughn, and traveled over the curb on the south side of E. Vaughn near Crockett. Rd. The vehicle initially struck a speed limit sign before striking a tree. The right side vehicle appeared to strike the first tree causing the vehicle to spin and become airborne. The vehicle struck a second tree causing the vehicle to sheer in half. A female passenger, later identified as Camilla Oliver 22 years of age, was ejected approximately 50 feet from the front seat of the vehicle. The male operator of the vehicle was not ejected, and was identified as Rannel Edward West, 34 years of age. Both subjects were initially transported to Palestine Regional Medical Center and were both care-flighted to ETMC-Tyler. Upon checking their status later in the day on October 6h, Oliver’s status was unknown pending surgery, and West was classified  as critical but stable.

Although speed has been determined to have been a factor in the accident, the investigation is continuing, as it has yet to be determined if intoxication played a part in the accident.

MAJOR ACCIDENT RESULTS IN CARE FLIGHT OF CHILD

PRESS RELEASE

On Wednesday, August 31, 2011, officers from the Palestine Police Department responded to a traffic accident at Loop 256 and North Link St, where two vehicles were involved in the accident. The initial investigation indicated that a 1998 Jeep SUV was traveling north on Link St. The jeep failed to stop at a red traffic light at Link and Loop 256. The Jeep then entered the intersection and collided with a 2006 Chevy truck. The impact caused to the Jeep to overturn and come to rest on its roof, according to Officer Mark Harcrow, the initial investigator.  No citations or charges have been filed, as the investigation is ongoing.

Officer Harcrow stated that the Jeep was driven by 32 year old Chad Everhart of Palestine. Also in the vehicle with Mr. Everhart was his 11 year old daughter. The child was transported to a Dallas hospital for treatment. The severities of the child’s injuries are unknown at this time. The child’s name is being withheld at this time.

The second vehicle in the accident, a Chevy truck, was driven by 22 year old Maxwell Migura.

 For additional information please contact Sgt. James Muniz at 903-731-8477.

TWO MEN ARRESTED AFTER TRAFFIC STOP LEADS TO RECOVERY OF DRUGS, STOLEN PROPERTY

PRESS RELEASE



On Sunday, August 28, 2011 Palestine PD Officer William Martin, assisted by Cpl. Matt Kerr, arrested 19 year old Mitchell Lee McKinney for Possession of a Controlled Substance and No Drivers License. The arrest was the result of a traffic stop for a speeding violation. During the stop it was determined that McKinney had no valid driver’s license and that McKinney had been previously charged with driving without a license.

After the arrest, officers located a bottle of pills in the truck driven by McKinney. The pills were later identified a XANAX which is a controlled substance and only available by prescription. The possession charge is a Class A misdemeanor and carries a possible jail term not to exceed one year and a possible fine not to exceed $4000.

During the arrest and subsequent investigation officers were able to determine that items located in the vehicle driven by McKinney were from a burglary in the Tyler area. Contact has been made with Tyler PD and detectives are working with Tyler PD to ensure that the items are returned to the rightful owner. Items recovered are a large screen TV, a laptop computer and several guns.

During a second incident officers arrested 59 year old George Rhemann on an outstanding parole warrant. During the contact with Rhemann a handgun was discovered in the truck being driven by Rhemann. It was further discovered that the handgun was reported as stolen in the same burglary as the items McKinney had in his possession when he was arrested. This information was also forwarded to Tyler PD.

“This was a solid case made on good police work by the initial Patrol Officers and Detectives  Tommy Thacker and Cathy Weber, who followed up on the case. I am proud of them for going out there and getting the job done,” said Chief Jeff Powell, Palestine PD. “Anytime we can mitigate the loss of property in these types of cases, by being able to recover the stolen property, identify an owner, and return the property to them, we are happy. Again, a job well done by the front line officers.”

The incident remains under investigation at this time.         

For additional information please contact Sgt. James Muniz at 903-731-8477.

One Arrested During Execution OF Early Morning Search Warrant

PRESS RELEASE

On August 26^th, 2011, at approximately 0530 Hrs., Sgt. Investigator Daniel Mogan from the Anderson County Drug Investigation Unit, along with members of the Anderson County Tactical Unit, Texas DPS – Criminal Investigation Division, and Palestine Police Department executed a controlled substance search warrant in the 100 blk. of W. Dallas, at the residence of Anthony D. Adams, 29 years of age.

Adams and another female were detained at the residence, and Adams was ultimately arrested in connection with the search warrant.

Investigators seized approximately 4.3 grams of suspected cocaine, 12.4 ounces of suspected marijuana, and 13.7 grams of assorted unidentified tablets, in addition to $729.00 in cash. Additional contraband seized included a scanner, scales, and packaging materials.

During initial execution of the warrant, a Taurus PT140 .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun was thrown from inside the residence through a window, landing at officers’ feet. The firearm was also seized as evidence. “That had to be a tense moment for officers to hear the window crash, followed by finding a gun at their, feet”, said Chief Jeff Powell. “The Drug Investigation Unit responded to the community’s concerns regarding this location, and did a good job following up on those concerns.”

“We appreciate all of the help that the Drug Unit gets from the ACSO, as well as DPS while running on these places. It is going to take a community effort to identify and stamp out the drug houses. If anyone has any information regarding other problem areas, they can call (903)729-4651. Investigators ask that you be patient regarding returned calls, as they may be out of the office from time to time.”

Adams was charged with Poss. Controlled Substance PG1 >4gm<200grams, Possession of a Firearm by Felon, and Possession of Marijuana more than 4 ounces but less than 5 lbs.

The female who was initially detained was the released at the scene.

PALESTINE PD ADDS NEW SUMMER UNIFORMS

PRESS RELEASE

 

Officers Chase Scarbrough and Justin Carlson model the Palestine Police Department’s new Summer Uniforms.

Officers from the Palestine Police Department will be sporting modified uniforms until the end of September this year.

The Palestine Police Department has authorized the optional Modified Summer Uniforms for patrol and other duties within the department.

The uniforms will consist of a blue-gray colored shirt that has an embroidered badge and the officer’s name on the front of the shirt, along with “Palestine Police Department” on the back of the shirt. Officers were given the option of wearing knee length shorts instead of pants, as well.

“The Officers who chose to participate are really excited about the additional options. With the weather that we have had, they have been welcomed by many officers”, says Operations Chief Jeff Powell. “We just wanted to inform the public of the addition, so they wouldn’t be surprised by contacting officers in a different design of uniform.”

OFFICERS UNCOVER MULTIPLE VEHICLE BURGARIES DURING INVESTIGATION OF AUTO ACCIDENT

PALESTINE POLICE DEPARTMENT

PRESS RELEASE

On Saturday, August 06, 2011 at approximately 0526 hours, Palestine PD was notified of a one vehicle crash in the 100 block of Glenwood Dr. A witness described a female approached the vehicle and open the driver door and attempt to start the vehicle. As officers arrived, the female fled into the wooded area. Officers Jason Lewis, Gabriel Green, Mark Harcrow and Cpl. Jamie Lester responded to the scene and began searching.  Cpl Lester located the female a short time later.  Three weapons were located inside of the vehicle.

Shortly after the initial investigation into the auto accident had commenced, Officer Jenkins responded to 1400 blk. of Sylvan St in reference to a Burg of Vehicle. It was determined that three guns were taken from this vehicle. It was determined through the investigation that the firearms discovered during the accident were reported as being stolen from the property owner on Sylvan.

A black female, later identified as Jenny Victoria Hodge, 21 years of age was ultimately charged in the case with Theft of Firearm, which is a State Jail Felony.

“Although an arrest was made, the case is still active, as there may have been additional parties involved in the offense. It also appears that an additional burglary was reported near the location of auto accident”, says Operations Chief Jeff Powell. “The Officers responding did a good job and were alert to discover the stolen property in the wrecked vehicle, and determined enough to locate the suspect hiding in the woods. I’m glad we kept the weapons off of the street.”

VEHICLE COLLISION RESULTS IN DAMAGE TO LOCAL BUSINESS

PRESS RELEASE

July 28, 2011

Officers responded to a multi-vehicle accident in the 1000 block of W. Palestine on Thursday afternoon.

Gwen Evans, 53 of Bunkie, Louisiana was traveling westbound in the 800 blk. of W. Palestine Ave in a 2010 Honda Accord. Guy Evans, 69, also of Bunkie, Louisiana was in the front passenger seat of the Honda.  According to witnesses, Evans was traveling at a high rate of speed when she struck a 2008 Jeep Wrangler near the intersection of W. Palestine Ave. and Conway.

            Evans then continued around the Jeep, drove right, across both westbound lanes. Evans left the roadway and drove into the Pic and Go parking lot, 1009 W. Palestine Ave, where she struck the gas pump nearest to the building. Valentin Garcia, 26, of Palestine was pumping gas into his 2002 Chevrolet pickup when he observed Evans’ vehicle was traveling towards him. Garcia was able to jump out of the way, just before Evans’ vehicle struck the gas pump he was using. After striking the gas pump, Evan’s vehicle pushed both the gas pump and the Chevrolet into the store. The Chevorlet’s bed partially intruded into the inside of the store.

            Store employee, Tammy Arnold, 51, of Palestine, was standing behind the counter inside of the store when the Chevrolet entered the store. Arnold was struck by an unknown object inside of the store after the collision.  Once Guy and Gwen Evans were removed from the vehicle, they were transported to the PRMC ER by ambulance, both with non-life threatening injuries. Arnold was later transported to the PRMC ER by private vehicle with non-life threatening injuries. 

            There was no indication of alcohol being involved in the accident. Unsafe speed appears to be the contributing factor in this accident. Charges are pending.

Palestine PD Arrest Suspect in Vehicle Burglaries

PRESS RELEASE

On July 6^th, 2011, at approximately 0619 Hrs., Officers from the Palestine Police Department responded to the 400 block of Fourth Street, in reference to a report of Burglary of a Vehicle.

Upon arrival, officers were advised that a family member of the victim came to the residence to visit, and found a suspect inside one of the vehicles at the residence. The victim observed a black male dressed in a white undershirt and dark shorts then leave the vehicle and travel away from the scene after being questioned. He was carrying believed stolen property with him at the time.

Cpl. Melvin Hill and Sgt. Rich Johnson, located a subject matching the description given by the witness, identified as Simas Lemond Farris, 33 years of age in the area. Property identified as being stolen from a vehicle in the 400 block was recovered. Farris was then placed under arrest. Farris was charged with Use of a Criminal Instrument, and Burglary of Vehicle W/ Previous Conviction.

The Palestine Police Department is currently investigating 94 Burglary of Vehicles that have occurred since June 1^st, 2011.

“Detectives are in the process of sorting out these burglaries, and have made some arrests. There are some leads in these cases, but with the sheer quantity of cases, it is going to take some time to investigate. We continue to ask the public to refrain from leaving valuables in their vehicles.”

“I would always ask for people to keep an eye out for their own neighborhood. If they see someone walking by, pulling on car door handles, or peeping in car windows, then call the police. That is suspicious enough for us to question someone about. We all have to look out for one another. In this case, the victim’s brother knew that this person had no business in the cars, and called us. I appreciate him for getting involved”, said Operations Chief Jeff Powell.

Additional charges may be pending against Farris, based on evidence found at the scene.

Bonds were set at $50,000 for each charge, according to the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department.

PALESTINE FIREWORKS DISPLAY NOTICE

PRESS RELEASE

The City of Palestine’s Fireworks Display will be held on July 4^th, 2011 at the soccer field west of Story School on Moody Street.

The Palestine Police Department and Palestine Fire Department would like to remind citizens of a few rules and safety measures:

No personal fireworks will be allowed inside the city limits per city ordinance. This includes sparklers and other similar types of fireworks. Fireworks will be confiscated and may result in the issuance of a citation.

Due to the extreme fire danger, any charcoal or similar type cooking apparatus must have all cooking materials (charcoal, wood, etc) extinguished prior to leaving the site.

North Loop 256 will be closed approximately 30 minutes prior to the display from 84 East to 79 East. No traffic, walking or driving will be allowed onto the Loop or near the display after the road has been shut down. Parking will not be allowed anywhere along North Loop 256. Moody Street, West of North Loop 256 will be blocked off prior to the start of the fireworks display, and traffic parked behind the barricades will exit the display westbound on Moody St.

Traffic parked off of Moody Street, east of North Loop 256 during the display will turn northbound on Loop 256 to leave the display. Traffic parked in parking lots south of Moody (YMCA, FBC Palestine, etc.) will be directed South onto North Loop 256 after the display.

PALESTINE PD INVESTIGATES SERIES OF AUTO BURGLARIES

PRESS RELEASE

The Palestine Police Department is currently investigating a series of automobile burglaries that have taken place over the past three weeks. The police department has developed a number of suspects and is currently seeking to locate and talk with these persons.

The police department also recovered several items believed to have been taken in several of these vehicle burglaries. These items include a number of GPS units and cell phones. The Palestine Police Department will be attempting to contact owners of these items within the next few days.

The Palestine Police Department has made two arrests in connection with these burglaries.  19 year old Joshua Knapp and 20 year old Jamison Starkes have been arrested in connection with a number of the automobile burglaries. Both subjects were taken to the Anderson County Jail. Additional charges are possible. There is a possibility of other arrests in the near future.

 Detective Nathan Allen will be leading the investigation concerning this series of burglaries. Citizens with questions should call Detective Allen at 903-731-8468.   

Palestine PD Bike Team to Host Bicycle Rodeo for Children

The Palestine Police Department would like to remind residents that members of the Palestine Police Department Bicycle Team will be hosting a Bicycle Rodeo on Saturday June 25th, in the Wal-Mart parking lot.

The Rodeo will start at 10 a.m. and last until 2 p.m.

The rodeo is designed to teach bicycle safety to children between the ages of 7 and 12. Special guest BMX star Morgan Wade will be on hand to assist with the event.

We ask that parents provide bicycles and safety helmets for their children, as they are required to participate.

One Arrest Made During Investigation of Convenience Store Burglary

PRESS RELEASE

On June 21, 2011, at approximately 0221 Hrs, Officers responded to the 700 Blk. of W. Palestine Ave, in reference to an alarm at Lucky Star Grocery.

Upon arrival, officers found that the front glass doors had been smashed in, and several items of merchandise were scattered about the floor inside and outside of the business. Officer Kris Davis, who responded to the call, observed some of the property lying in the street near the store. Upon observing a suspect running away from the area, the subject was ordered to stop, and was eventually detained after a short foot pursuit in the 1200 Blk. of North Howard St. Jerome Dawson, 39 years of age was arrested for Burglary of Building, Evading Arrest or Detention, and Public Intoxication. Evidence was recovered in the area which was believed to have been stolen from the business. Dawson was transported to the Anderson County Jail where he was booked in on the charges. “This was a nice job by Officer Davis, and other officers of being observant enough to follow the evidence, until it led to a suspect,” said Operations Chief Powell regarding the arrest.

The value of the stolen property removed from the store has not been calculated at the time of the release.

Palestine PD to Conduct Citizen's Police Academy

The Palestine PD, starting September 22, 2011 will be conducting a 9 week Citizen's Police Academy. Each week different topics will be discussed including functions of Police Administration, Law Overview (Penal Code and CCP), Patrol Procedures, Criminal Investigations, Drug Investigations, Dispatch Functions, Municipal Court Procedures, and Firearms. Tours will be provided of the PD as well as the Anderson County Jail. The classes are expected to last between two and a half and three hours. A meal will be provided the first night, and a sign up sheet will be provided to

There is no cost to participate, however applicants must live, work, or volunteer within the city limits of Palestine, TX.

Applications may be found at the information stand in City Hall or by visiting www.cityofpalestinetx.com
The application can be found within the departmental information for the Police Department.